India is continuously strengthening its military capabilities. Meanwhile, the Indian Navy is intensifying its efforts to purchase Rafale fighter planes. The Air Force needs new planes because its old planes are retiring. In view of this, preparations are going on for a big and important defense deal between India and France. Under which India can buy more Rafale fighter aircraft from France.
This deal between the two countries will not only increase the strength of the Indian Air Force, but will also give a new direction to defense manufacturing in India. The special thing about this deal is that a major part of Rafale aircraft will be made in India only. This deal is considered very important for India’s defense strategy and self-reliance.
Talks intensify regarding Rafale fighter planes
According to the information, talks between India and France regarding Rafale fighter planes have intensified. Both the countries are said to be very close to the deal. Under which India will buy additional Rafale aircraft for the Air Force. It is believed that this proposal may gain further momentum before French President Emmanuel Macron’s visit to India next month.
Air Force needs about 114 modern fighter planes
Here, the Indian Air Force has already proposed new fighter planes to the government. It has also been decided in this proposal that Rafale aircraft will be manufactured in India. However, talks are being held regarding how many aircraft will be purchased under this deal. It is being told that the Air Force needs about 114 modern fighter planes.
Defense deal requires approval at multiple levels
This defense deal will require approval at many levels. First of all it will need approval from the Defense Acquisition Council. After this there will be discussion regarding its price. Then final approval will be taken from the Cabinet Committee on Security. Along with this, the Central Government will also have to make provision of adequate amount in the budget for this. Last year, in 2025, India had signed an agreement to buy 24 naval versions of Rafale.
On the basis of this deal, an estimate of the price of the big Rafale deal already exists. It is believed that this new deal could be worth several billion euros. The manufacturing of Rafale planes in India is being considered a big achievement for the country. In June 2025, an agreement was signed between Tata Advanced Systems Limited and Dassault Aviation of France. Under which some parts of the main structure of the Rafale aircraft will be made in India.
First deliveries expected to begin by 2028
Here Tata Advanced Systems is preparing a special manufacturing unit in Hyderabad. Where four big fuselage parts of Rafale will be made. This unit will work not only for India but also for the global orders received by Dassault. It is expected that the first deliveries from this unit will start by 2028. This plant will have the capacity to manufacture 24 fuselages annually.